Kolkata (Calcutta)

City of Joy

Nestled on the banks of the Hooghly River, Kolkata is a booming metropolis, India's second largest city, and the country's cultural hub, known for being the birthplace of major artistic and literary movements. You won't run out of things to do in Kolkata, a sprawling city filled with a profusion of colonial-era buildings and art museums, as well as modern high-rises and spacious green parks. Take in the city atmosphere by exploring its crowded streets, traditional markets, and restaurants, serving a variety of regional Indian cuisines. Plan your holiday in Kolkata (Calcutta) and other destinations, from the rural, to the urban, and everything in between, using our India vacation route planner.

Where to stay

Kolkata boasts a variety of deluxe, high-end hotels, situated especially in the heart of the city and in the upscale neighborhoods of the South Kolkata district. While both mid-range and budget options are plentiful and can be found all over town, if you're not looking to splurge, consider booking ahead, as decent but affordable establishments fill up quickly.